Obasanjo’s true objective was never about Peter Obi winning—it was about ensuring that Atiku Abubakar, his former deputy and longtime political rival, did not return to power.
The 2023 Nigerian presidential election was filled with political maneuvers, betrayals, and calculated alliances. Among the many twists, one of the most significant was the role former President Olusegun Obasanjo played in influencing the outcome. While many Obidients (supporters of Peter Obi) saw his endorsement of Obi as a sign of genuine support, the reality was far more strategic. Obasanjo’s true objective was never about Peter Obi winning—it was about ensuring that Atiku Abubakar, his former deputy and longtime political rival, did not return to power.
Obasanjo’s History with Atiku: A Long-Standing Grudge
Obasanjo and Atiku’s political fallout is well-documented. During their time in office (1999–2007), Atiku challenged Obasanjo’s authority, especially when the former president attempted to secure a third term. Atiku played a major role in blocking that ambition, leading to a bitter rivalry that has lasted for decades. Obasanjo never forgave him, and every election since then has been an opportunity for him to sabotage Atiku’s political aspirations.
Going into the 2023 election, Atiku posed a serious threat. He had a strong political structure, deep pockets, and experience in past elections. Obasanjo needed a way to weaken him without directly endorsing another establishment candidate. This is where Peter Obi came in.
The Endorsement of Peter Obi: A Strategic Distraction
Obasanjo publicly endorsed Peter Obi, giving his candidacy legitimacy and drawing significant support from young Nigerians who were frustrated with the status quo. His endorsement was seen as a game-changer, leading many Obidients to believe that they had the backing of a powerful political figure. However, what many failed to realize was that Obasanjo was not necessarily trying to make Obi president—he was using him as a tool to divide Atiku’s votes in the South and among Christian voters.
This strategy worked perfectly. Peter Obi’s strong performance, especially in the South-South, South-East, and parts of the North Central, significantly ate into Atiku’s traditional voter base. The result? Atiku could not gather enough votes to challenge Tinubu effectively.
The Surprise Move: Obasanjo’s ‘Stylish’ Congratulations to Tinubu
After the elections, when Bola Ahmed Tinubu was declared the winner, Obasanjo, who had appeared to be a staunch opponent of Tinubu’s candidacy, suddenly took a more conciliatory tone. Instead of outrightly rejecting the results, he subtly acknowledged Tinubu’s victory, urging him to ensure fairness and justice.
For many Obidients who had believed that Obasanjo was on their side, this was a slap in the face. It became clear that Obasanjo’s primary interest was never about Peter Obi winning—it was about stopping Atiku at all costs. Once that goal was achieved, he had no problem making peace with Tinubu, the declared winner.
The Bitter Truth: What Omoyele Sowore Knows
If there is one person who understands the depth of Nigeria’s political betrayals, it is Omoyele Sowore. As a long-time activist and political observer, Sowore has repeatedly warned that many so-called “progressives” in Nigeria’s political space are merely playing self-serving games. He has exposed how these figures manipulate elections, deceive the masses, and ultimately align with the highest bidder when the dust settles.
Sowore has been vocal about how Obasanjo operates, and he has never hidden his criticism of Peter Obi’s naivety in aligning with the former president. If you want the full story of how Obasanjo played the Obidients, ask Sowore—he will tell you the unfiltered truth.
The Lesson for Obidients and Nigerians
The biggest takeaway from this political episode is that Nigerian politicians, especially the so-called elder statesmen, do not always act in the public’s best interest. Obasanjo’s endorsement of Peter Obi was never about genuine belief in his presidency—it was a tactical move to divide opposition votes. Those who genuinely seek change in Nigeria must learn not to be pawns in the political games of the establishment.
The #RevolutionNow movement has consistently called for a break from this cycle of deception. Nigerians must wake up and recognize the need for true grassroots political action, free from the manipulations of old political actors who prioritize personal vendettas over national progress.